The new masterplan for the site celebrates the ‘water city’ of
Wenzhou, introducing a network of canals, pedestrianised streets and
gardens that overlook the river with views towards the city centre and
surrounding mountains, creating a new memorable place and destination
for Wenzhou. The three primary canals organise the site with the
principle canal extended from the existing masterplan, the north canal
creates the new marina park and the southern canal animates the southern
residential garden. The signature towers, 350m and 140m tall, stand
as iconic beacons for Wenzhou Qi Du Island, strong in their simplicity
and elegance, shimmering with glass fins mimicking the movement of the
Nanxi River in the sun. Office, Hotel and Serviced Apartments provide
the commercial heart of the development supported by the retail village
and mall.
Floating as lanterns in the water the
retail village is a collection of 2-4 story boutique fashion stores
with glass pavilion cafes and restaurants creating a destination
shopping district. Approaching the retail village, grand staircases
raise people above the lower canal, flanked on either side by
waterfalls, to a unique and tranquil place. The 20,000m² shopping mall
below the village connects directly to the lower canal walk, office
lobby and retail village via sunken gardens. 1800 car parking spaces
are accessed directly from the lower canal level allowing the retail
village to remain a pedestrianised precinct. Residential towers, 120m
and 100m tall, respond to the sculptural strength of Mt Yandang, and
craft of antique Cong vases. Primary views to the south focus on the
drama of the busy city while zen views to the north capture the grandeur
and mystery of the mountains. A new marina and marina park provides
parking for boats, water taxi and ferry connections to the city. The
marina park is a destination for family gathering with panoramic views
of the river, mountains, city and Jiangxin Temple.